Business Digest, March 8, 2014: Startup challenge deadline Monday

Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. Monday, ﻿for the 2014 Startup Challenge, a competition with $65,000 in prizes for new ventures in the tri-county area that can create jobs. There are three categories, venture play, where a venture capital return is expected in three to five years, main street for local or regional business, and student entrepreneurs.

Semifinalists will be chosen from the Business Pitch event March 28 at Cal State Monterey Bay. They will be asked to complete a full business plan and present to panels of investors, industry leaders and business consultants May 2 at the Monterey Institute of International Studies.

One final workshop is scheduled for applicants working on their one-page entry: 3-5 p.m. Saturday, ﻿from at the Monterey Institute of International Studies, McGowan Hall Room 320. For information, visit www.thestartupchallenge.org or call 831-582-3230.